Reviews factors that influence high school and college students' physical activity adoption and/or maintenance based on recent behavioral research. Relevant determinants of physical activity include self-efficacy, intentions, perceived barriers, enjoyment, stages of change, and social support. Suggestions for behavior modifications to increase…

The four main influences on an adolescent's motivation for learning are parental influences, peer influences, community influence, and self-concept. Establishing motivation in physical education is a matter of correct diagnosis of student capabilities and provision of appropriate options in the curriculum by the physical education teacher. (MT)

This article reviews research regarding the energy costs of various aerobic dance programs and compares the energy cost of aerobic dancing with other aerobic activities and with selected modes of dance. Results are discussed. (MT)

A brief review of the changes in required physical education curricula and the profession between the late nineteenth century and the present leads to the argument that the field must re-emphasize a sound understanding of its philosophic base if it is to win true professional status. (CB)

The roles of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and fiber in producing energy for health and exercise are discussed. Long-distance runners should have a high intake of complex carbohydrates and fiber. (PP)

This paper suggests: (1) how to increase the amount of practice that an athlete can work in during the day; and (2) ways to enhance practice for maximum performance gains. Research information about both physical and mental forms of practice are synthesized. (PP)

The development of ontogenetic movements--complex, learned skills such as throwing--is greatly influenced by socialization experiences provided by parents. Girls, as well as boys, should be given the opportunity to learn and develop these skills during preschool years. (PP)

Physical education teachers can help obese children develop effective movement patterns while encouraging an active lifestyle. Teachers should be familiar with: (1) the impact of obesity on children's physical and mental health; (2) the importance of exercise for weight control; and (3) implications for the physical education program. (PP)

In personalized physical education, the child becomes the focus, movement becomes the content for learning, and the teacher becomes the learning manager, inviter, facilitator, and guide. Teachers use humanistic, encouraging strategies that invite children to participate and build their self-concepts. (PP)

Guidelines for competitive physical education and recreational therapy programs for multihandicapped children are discussed. Program developers should consider psychological factors, such as conceptualization of competition, anxiety management, and students' motivation and sense of locus of control. Teachers and parents should be trained to act…

The author reviews the literature on aquatic activity for the disabled, discussing the physical, physiological, psychological, and sociological benefits of swimming and water safety activities. Unique properties of water and legal requirements regarding physical education of the handicapped, specifically citing the development of skills in…

Extremely few Black students are choosing physical education as a major at the undergraduate level, with even fewer pursuing graduate study. College administrators may be able to bring more Blacks into the profession by linking their predominantly White institutions with predominantly Black institutions and establishing minority recruiting…

The article discusses current instructional grouping methods typically used in physical education, as well as potential legal ramifications. Physical educators must carefully choose grouping strategies for how well they protect students and enrich learning experiences, not for convenience. (CB)

Air Pollution is a common environmental stressor affecting the training and competitive performance of athletes, commonly irritating the eyes, nose, and throat. The health and exercise effects of such primary and secondary air pollutants as carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, air particulates, ozone, and nitrogen dioxide are discussed. (CB)

This article offers a collection of commentary on work and play, including sources spanning some three centuries of American history. It is noted that the work ethic, in its various forms and shades, has perceptibly provided the leitmotif for the American experience in work and play. (JMK)